August 1, 2023

Adopt-a-Pet.com Blog Expect When Meeting a Dog for the First Time

By Savannah Admire

Irina Polonina /Stocksy
Adopting a new dog into your family can be an incredibly exciting experience, and it can be tempting to pull your new pet into a big hug the first time you meet them. But many shelter dogs come from traumatic or difficult backgrounds, and even socialized dogs might not be ready for such affection from an unfamiliar person right away. Take the time to learn what to do when meeting a rescue dog for the first time so you know how to approach a dog safely and kindly.

How to Prepare for Your Animal Shelter Visit

When meeting a dog at the shelter for the first time, keep in mind that every animal is unique, with their own personality and behaviors. Prepare to pay close attention to how the dog reacts to you and try to give off a calm, soothing energy. You can work to make a positive first impression by using the dog adoption meet-and-greet tips below.

How should you introduce yourself to a dog for the first time?

The best way to introduce yourself to a dog is simply to respect their space. Be patient and gentle in your first interactions with them, and observe their body language because this is how they will express their feelings.

Follow the tips below to ensure that your first time with a dog goes as smoothly as possible:

Ask for permission. Always ask if it is okay to interact with a dog before you approach, whether meeting a dog on the street or approaching a rescue dog for the first time. This is especially important if the dog is not familiar with you. The rescue worker or foster parent will know the dog better and can help you know when the best time is to interact with a rescue dog. You may also want to take time before your first meeting to jot down some questions to ask the dog’s foster parents or shelter caretakers. If you are afraid of dogs, you should communicate this so the foster parents or shelter caretakers can help you meet the dog in a way that is comfortable for you.
Be calm and confident. Dogs can sense fear, so it is important to be calm yet confident when approaching them to help to put them at ease.
Get down on the dog’s level. Being lower to the ground when you greet a new dog will make you seem less threatening and encourage them to approach you.
Let the dog sniff you. Dogs have a keen sense of smell, so let them sniff your hand before you try to pet them. Some thorough sniffing can help a dog get to know you better and is an essential part of the process of how to meet a dog for the first time.
Pet the dog under their chin or on their side. These are areas where most dogs enjoy being petted, avoid patting their head as many dogs dislike this.
Be gentle and respectful. Even if the dog seems friendly, being gentle and respectful when interacting with a new dog helps build trust and avoid any accidents.
Pay attention to the dog’s body language. Dogs will often give you cues about how they are feeling, so if they seem uncomfortable or scared, back off and give them some space.

Are there specific areas I should avoid touching a dog?

Avoid reaching over a dog’s head to pet them because that can be interpreted as a negative or dominant action and could give off the wrong impression. The first time you pet a dog, stick to petting underneath their chin, but let the dog sniff you before you approach them, and make sure that they see your hand before you touch them so they don’t become startled. If the dog receives chin scratching positively, try scratching their ears as well.

If the dog expresses anxiety at any point, such as growling or pulling away, remove your hand from the dog and retreat a few steps to give them space.

How can you tell if a dog likes you?

Dogs are very good at using their body language to communicate with humans, and there are multiple signs that a dog likes you and enjoys interacting with you, such as a loose, relaxed body and an open mouth. Of course, the classic relaxed tail wag is also a good indicator that the dog is happy and open to interaction.

Once you understand how to know a dog loves you, you should also know what signs to watch for that indicate discomfort. Keep an eye out for any signs that may indicate the dog is in an aggressive or threatening mood, such as showing their teeth or holding their tail in a stiff, erect position. If you notice this body language, end the interaction and step away.

What should I do if the dog seems friendly and wants to play?

Dogs communicate a desire to play by bowing down with their front legs extended and their rear end in the air. If you meet a new dog and they exhibit this behavior, it’s perfectly safe to start a game of fetch by throwing a ball or toy or playing a gentle tug of war. Just pay close attention to any changes in the dog’s body language that could indicate a shift in attitude or mood and avoid any rough play.

Should I bring treats for the dog?

Yes, you should bring treats. Treats can help a dog relax and feel more comfortable around you, in addition to helping them build positive associations with spending time with you. For the first meeting, avoid letting the dog eat directly from your hand and just set the treat gently on the ground nearby. This gives the dog a chance to approach without feeling obligated to interact, which is an important step in how to meet a rescue dog for the first time.

Welcoming a new dog into your family is worth celebrating, but when you first meet a dog, be patient and help them get to know you. Understand that the dog may have had a difficult life, and it may take them some time to feel comfortable and warm up to you. But once they do, you’ll have a devoted friend for the rest of their life.

FAQ (People Also Ask)

What should you do when meeting a dog for the first time?

Be calm yet confident and let the dog approach you instead of approaching the dog, which can be frightening to them.

How should I approach a dog for the first time?

Get down on the dog’s level by sitting or kneeling on the floor and reach out a hand to invite them to sniff you.

What should I do if the dog seems fearful or aggressive?

If the dog seems fearful or aggressive, end the interaction and back away. Don’t try to approach them again.

Can I approach a dog that is eating or chewing on a toy?

Never approach a dog who is eating or chewing on a toy because dogs can be very defensive of their food and toys and may bite.

Are there any specific areas I should avoid touching on a dog?

In your first meeting with a dog, pet them under the chin, not on top of their head or anywhere else on their body.

Can I pick up a small dog without permission?

Never pick up a dog without permission. The dog will likely feel uncomfortable and could react with aggression.

What should I do if the dog seems friendly and wants to play?

If the dog indicates that they want to play, engage in a gentle game of fetch or tug of war and stop playing when they want to stop.

Should I bring treats for the dog?

Treats can help a dog warm up to you and encourage trust.

How should I pet a dog for the first time?

Pet a dog on the chin first after letting them sniff your hand. Avoid the top of the head and other areas of their body.

References

Dog to Dog Introductions

Your New Dog Tips

Dog Parenting 101

RSPCA Bringing Home a Rescue Dog

Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

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